“Two Strangers” is unlike any musical I’ve ever seen. Written by Jim Barne and Kit Buchan, the musical is light-hearted, hilarious and feel-good. It also features only two actors – Sam Tutty as Dougal and Tanasha Chege as Robin (standing in for Dujonna Gift in the performance that I saw).
The main set-up is fairly straightforward. Dougal, a young English man, is invited to attend his father’s wedding in New York. He’s never met his estranged father before, who left his mother before he was born, and he hopes that this will be the perfect opportunity to get to know him. Instead, he’s met at the airport by Robin, his aunt-to-be. What ensues is a fun-filled adventure across New York, as Robin races to pick up her sister’s wedding cake with Dougal in tow.
The characters effortlessly slip into songs throughout, which never feel forced and often add to the comedy. A particularly memorable song (“Under the Mistletoe”) features the two characters mocking Christmas songs as they catch an Uber across town, whilst “On The App” sees Dougal attempt to help Robin out with her dating life. Throughout, Dougal and Robin both tread the very fine line between platonic friendship and romance, seducing the audience with their playful banter and witty remarks.
Dougal could be described as an outgoing-introvert, excited to see the sights of New York (Robin refer to him as a Labrador puppy) whilst still coming across as incredibly awkward, which Tutty is able to sell all too well, instantly likeable from his first moments on stage. Robin is a little harder to like at first, appearing slightly standoffish and cynical, but the contrast between Chege and Tutty makes the relationship more enjoyable to watch, and the chemistry between the two is electric.
The show does have some more serious moments, with major revelations about Dougal’s father in the second act. These revelations are extensively teased in the first half, so the audience is prepared for heartbreak, and Tutty more than delivers in the song “About to go in”. Tutty and Chege get to flex their skills even more in the song “The Argument”, a quick back-and-forth number with excellent lyricism that allows Buchan’s poetic talents to shine through.
The set, designed by Soutra Gilmour, is made up of large suitcases, which open to reveal wardrobes, fridges, beds, chairs, and a Chinese restaurant. It is a remarkably simple yet effective piece of staging that makes the play feel dynamic and helps each scene to flow swiftly to the next, with no need for extensive scene changes.
Everything about this play is designed to leave a smile on your face. There’s no deep, hidden meanings here – there’s no extensive character analysis or subtext. It’s fun, pure and simple, which is sometimes just what you need. A perfect show, and one that I heartily recommend.
Tom Morley, May 2024
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